My Fulbright Experience

On December 3, 2024, Romania’s Permanent Representation to the Council of Europe will host a special event in Strasbourg to celebrate the country’s National Day. The highlight of the evening will be the screening of the documentary “Wild Danube,” directed by British journalist Charlie Ottley. This film offers a captivating journey through the Danube Delta …

Celebrating Romania’s National Day: Showcasing the Danube Delta at the Council of Europe Read More »

This year, I will celebrate Thanksgiving in Romania, a world away from the traditions and comforts of California. This holiday, deeply tied to American culture, feels different when you are abroad, but perhaps that is where its meaning shines the brightest. It is an opportunity to adapt, connect, and reflect on gratitude in a new …

Thanksgiving Abroad: Preparing to Celebrate Gratitude in Romania Read More »

On November 30, Romania celebrates the Feast of Saint Andrew, a deeply significant day in the Orthodox calendar and a public holiday across the country. Known as the Protector of Romania, Saint Andrew holds a special place in the hearts of Romanians, not just for his role in the Christianization of these lands, but also as a unifying …

Saint Andrew: Protector of Romania and Patron Saint of Unity Read More »

Reflections on the REFLECT International Conference: Bridging Research and Dialogue in Sibiu This week, I had the privilege of presenting at the REFLECT International Conference hosted by Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu. This year’s theme, “Fostering Cross-disciplinary Reflections to Bridge Societal Divides,” provided a dynamic platform for researchers from diverse fields to engage in meaningful discussions …

Reflections on the REFLECT International Conference: Bridging Research and Dialogue in Sibiu Read More »

It began in the darkness, as many surrealist journeys do. At 6:45 a.m., I boarded a boat in Sulina, the furthest whisper of Europe, where the Danube Delta dissolves into the Black Sea. Sulina is a place of contradictions: a remote town where pelicans outnumber people but still boasts Wi-Fi strong enough for Netflix. The …

A Day in Transit: Fulbright Dispatches from the “Slowly Moving Insane Asylum” Read More »

Letea, a quaint village in the Danube Delta, had been on my list of must-visit places. Known for its stunning natural surroundings and traditional architecture, I arrived with high expectations, hoping to learn about its people, culture, and reliance on fishing. However, my visit turned out to be more disappointing than enriching, leaving me with …

Letea: A Beautiful Village with an Unwelcoming Heart Read More »

Discovering Periprava: A Journey to the Edge of Romania Continuing my Fulbright research has taken me to incredible places, but today’s visit to Periprava felt particularly special. Nestled at the very edge of Romania, this small village sits along the Chilia branch of the Danube, which also serves as the natural border with Ukraine. The …

Discovering Periprava: A Journey to the Edge of Romania Read More »

A Journey to Sfiștofca: A Forgotten Village in the Danube Delta Embarking on a journey to Sfiștofca, a secluded village in Romania’s Danube Delta, was like stepping back in time. As part of my Fulbright grant and doctoral research, today I had the opportunity to explore this unique community and its surroundings, immersing myself in …

A Journey to Sfiștofca: A Forgotten Village in the Danube Delta Read More »

In the face of potential political shifts and budgetary challenges, the value of the Fulbright Program shines more brightly than ever. For decades, Fulbright has served as a bridge between nations, fostering mutual understanding, intellectual exchange, and cultural learning. As a current Fulbrighter conducting research in Romania, I see every day the impact this program …

Why We Must Protect the Fulbright Program in Uncertain Times Read More »

Today, on Dobrogea Day, we celebrate a region rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, a place that has long stood as a bridge between civilizations and remains a vital piece of Romania’s cultural tapestry. As a researcher working in the Danube Delta, a part of Dobrogea’s unique ecosystem, I feel particularly connected to this …

Celebrating Dobrogea: A Land of Rich History and Natural Wonder Read More »